EPHRAIM - Susan Reynolds-Smith's paintings will be on display through the end of December in UU Gallery, 10341 State 42, Ephraim.

Reynolds-Smith is a Wisconsin native and a full-time Door County resident for the past seven years. She spent her professional career as a retail apparel buyer for major department stores before retiring to become a full-time mother.

It was in her role as a buyer that she began exploring color, shape, and design through product development.

Reynolds-Smith began her art career as an oil painter in 2015. Primarily self-taught, she was inspired to paint by studying art history and traveling throughout Europe.

"I am inspired by the Post-Impressionist and Art Nouveau movements. The use of bold color and strong shapes to express the structure of objects is something I try to create in my work. My art is an honest form of self-expression and a chance to share something of my personality," said Reynolds-Smith.

Reynolds-Smith's work has been accepted to the 41st Juried Exhibition of the Miller Art Museum. Her work has also been exhibited at the Hardy Gallery, Base Camp Coffee Bar, Door County YMCA Fish Creek, and Chef's Hat Cafe.

An Art and Holiday Cookie Reception will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday at UU Gallery.

Additionally, Write On, Door County will hold "Art Speaks: Free Writing Lab" focused on the exhibit at 1:30 p.m. on Dec. 14. The writing lab provides a peaceful writing space for expression and reflection on the artwork.

UU Gallery is free and open to the public. Hours are from 1 to 3 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and on Sunday mornings from 11 a.m. to noon. For more information call, 920-854-7559.